As with the previous novel, Weber envisages his story on a wide, epic scale. Although the feel of the novel is that of a nautical/historical fantasy, he provides timely reminders about the true nature of the series – that these humans are alive in the far future and have the looming threat of racial extinction from aliens.

A strength Weber is known for, and on full display here, is his ability to paint larger than life characters in a believable fashion. Cayleb is a figure who could draw comparisons to some of ‘real’ history’s greatest leaders – Abraham Lincoln, Alexander the Great, or even Charlemagne. If such leaders did not once exist, it might otherwise be difficult to believe in a person such as Cayleb.

OK. As you might expect with such a massive tome, it starts slowly. The first 250 pages take their time but they are relentless. In fact, the first 250 pages are probably a novel in themselves. They tell of Crichton-style genetic experiments, of blood-sucking creatures, their development and their eventual escape. We are introduced to Amy Bellafonte, a quiet little abandoned six-year old with unusual Wyndham-esque powers. Her protector is Brad Wolgast, an FBI agent with a closer attachment to Amy than should be. Anthony Carter is a Death Row prisoner given a choice, but an outcome he didn’t expect.